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The 360-degree SkyDeck: this is what First Class should really look like

A company called Windspeed Tech has for the past year or so been busy designing a novel upgrade to carriers and jets: a little bubble placed on the tail of an aircraft that offers a fantastic 360 degree view. The teardrop-shaped platform is called the SkyDeck, and Windspeed says it could help airlines earn more money, while offering a select few the ride of a lifetime.

The perspective view inside the canopy. (c) Windspeed

Windspeed says it can be made from materials used today in the canopies of supersonic fighter jets. It can be used as a one-seat or two-seat configuration, depending on what the client wants. It can be installed on large aircraft and small personal jets; old or new.

The ‘skydeck’ can be accessed using an elevator or stairs. (c) Windspeed

Inside, passengers can enjoy an incredible view high up in the clouds. A GPS and display monitor would always inform you above where the plane is flying, so you don’t miss anything.

The seats can rotate in any direction. (c) Windspeed

The company says it has addressed a number of challenges and issues so the SkyDeck doesn’t interfere the aircraft’s tail performance or the structural integrity of the aircraft.

To reduce drag, the teardrop canopy needs to be placed on the back of the aircraft. (c) Windspeed

Airbus is the first company interested in such a product. Once an order is placed, the first SkyDeck can be fixed in 18 months.